Pet Therapy

Who let the dogs … and the cats … out? We did! It’s all part of our innovative Pet Therapy program. Having fun has never been so good for you.

The Therapeutic Power Of Pets

At Eastridge Suites, our residents enjoy numerous health benefits that come from our innovative Pet Therapy program. Residents are delighted and entertained by a variety of pets, ranging from dogs and cats to show and fair animals.

The best medicine for some medical or mental health issues isn’t just medicine at all … it’s pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) in the form of a wet nose or a warm hug to brighten someone’s day.

We’ve seen the positive impact that the friendship of a beloved furry pet has on our residents. Spending time with pets has been known to boost well-being, reduce stress, and help improve health issues. That’s why we offer regularly scheduled visits with therapy pets, promoting the human-animal bond that our residents cherish.

The healing and therapeutic benefits of pet therapy for seniors are abundant and may include:

  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Improving overall cardiovascular health
  • Building trust
  • Releasing endorphins that have a calming effect
  • Reducing stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness
  • Diminishing overall physical pain
  • Stimulating memory
  • Increasing socialization and sense of community
  • Improving verbal communication
  • Motivating physical activity
  • Boosting self-esteem
  • Reducing boredom and loneliness
  • Improving assisted or independent movement

Visits are beneficial for everyone; the animals enjoy the attention and companionship as much as our residents. Days are brighter, smiles are bigger, and laughter is louder.